Episode 183 — THIS MORTAL COIL


It's another day at the station until Dr Zoe walks in and makes a shock report: someone will try to murder one of her patients. The patient's name is Josie Sumers and she is a victim of Motor Neurone Disease, a hideous ailment that finally leaves the patient with their brain intact, but unable to move a single muscle of their body.

The Heelers investigate and discover that Zoe has been approached by Josie's carer, her brother and sister in law, about the possibility of euthanasia. Although they appeared to accept her refusal to help, she is sure that they will try to take action themselves. The Heelers try to diffuse the situation, promising that while no charges can be laid they will speak to the parties involved.

Nick and Dash are sent to Josie's home to investigate the allegations. Josie appears to be in no danger and well cared for but the severity of the disease is shocking; she cannot speak, eat or even breathe unassisted. With the help of her devoted young son, Lucas, Nick and Dash are able to ask her questions with yes or no answers, which she responds to with blinks. They ascertain that she feels her carers present no threat to her. Nick and Dash walk away believing that the matter is resolved but Zoe is not satisfied. She calls a Guardianship Board hearing to remove Josie from her brother's care and place her in hospital. Zoe's plan is unsuccessful but it causes enough tension in the family for Lucas to run away.

The Heelers go on a frantic search but Lucas soon returns with his father, David Summers, who has not seen his family since Josie was diagnosed with the disease. Desperate to see his wife, David goes to Josie's home only to be told that he is not allowed to see his wife. The Heelers are called in as the ensuing argument almost comes to blows. David agrees to leave but it is clear that he has not given up hope of seeing his wife.

Next, Josie is found dead by her nurse. Zoe refuses to issue a death certificate, she believes that even though Josie was suffering the last stages of the disease, she died by someone's hand. Maggie and PJ begin an investigation into Josie's death. At first it seems that her carers are the ones to blame but everyone seems to have an alibi. The answers are closer than they think.

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